Chapter 503: Reception Banquet
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
Under Mr. Chen’s supervision, Poxed Face Wang and the others managed to complete the transcription of all 48 announcements before nightfall.
Throughout the task, they had accidentally wasted eight sheets of paper, each costing five copper coins. The group collectively decided to deduct this amount from Poxed Face Wang’s two-tael silver reward.
As they finished transcribing the last announcement, the first set of announcements had already been posted by the bailiffs, seemingly synchronized with Su Bin’s arrival.
In front of everyone, Mr. Chen whispered something to Su Bin. While the exact words were inaudible to Poxed Face Wang and his colleagues, they could deduce that Mr. Chen was likely briefing Governor Su on how they successfully completed the task.
Initially, they had quarreled among themselves, but eventually, they had worked together.
Upon hearing Mr. Chen’s report, a grin spread across Su Bin’s face.
“Excellent work. You’ve completed the mission with quality on the very first day. It’s deserving of a reward.”
“I hereby declare that you will all receive an additional half of this month’s salary.”
Though they had yet to see the actual money, the smiles on Wang Canzi and the others’ faces beamed when they heard the governor’s pledge.
“Thank you, Governor Sul”
The excitement and anticipation on their faces now were in stark contrast to how Su Bin had found them earlier in the day.
Initially, they seemed like a disorganized group, but now, as he looked at them, he could see they were not without their merits.
“Originally, transcribing 48 announcements alone would have been quite a challenge, but luckily, you came together and helped one another to complete this mission. This spirit of unity is truly commendable.”
“I hope that you will continue to excel in the future.”
“As long as Shanglin Prefecture is administered effectively, and the people can enjoy peace and prosperity, I will naturally petition the Imperial Court to allocate more funds and enhance the standard of living for everyone.”
“Furthermore, as long as you perform well and collaborate with me to govern Shanglin Prefecture efficiently, I will be more than willing to reward you from my personal resources.”
Su Bin began by commending them and then inquired, “Do you have the confidence to assist me in managing Shanglin Prefecture?”
Blinded by the allure of Su Bin’s rewards, these men responded in unison, “We are confident!”
Su Bin appeared content, and he promptly fulfilled his commitment. He instructed Mr. Chen to provide two taels of silver to Poxed Face Wang.
“Your calligraphy is truly impressive. Your dedication to practice is evident. These two taels of silver are a well-deserved reward.
Poxed Face Wang was elated. “Thank you for your praise, Governor Sul”
“Thank you for your reward, Governor Su!”
Following a brief discussion, the others pushed Poxed Face Wang and Liu Dazhuang forward, instructing them to invite Governor Su and Mr. Chen for a meal.
Liu Dazhuang nudged Poxed Face Wang once more and whispered, “The reward is yours, so you should be the one to invite us.”
Poxed Face Wang approached Su Bin and bowed, saying, “I would like to invite
Governor Su and Mr. Chen to join us for a meal. Is that acceptable?”
Su Bin appeared slightly surprised. “You’re treating?”
Poxed Face Wang nodded. “Indeed! It was all thanks to our comrades’ assistance that I received a two-tael silver reward. We’ve already discussed it, and we’ve reserved a private room at Sanzhen Restaurant. Everyone is invited to join us for a meal.”
“With your money. Treat it as a welcome banquet for you..”